Matthew Tota

Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified A pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and financially ready. It gives you a clear budget and strengthens your offer. Know Your Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves Clarify your non-negotiables (location, size, layout) vs. preferences (finishes, extra garage, etc.). This keeps you focused. Understand the Market Conditions Is it a buyer's or seller's market? This affects how aggressively you need to act and how much negotiating power you have. Hire a Local Real Estate Expert Choose an agent who knows the area, has experience with your price point, and communicates clearly. Plan for Closing Costs (2–5% of the purchase price). Have a “Plan B” if the inspection or appraisal doesn’t go your way. Keep emotion in check. Don’t fall in love with a house until you’re holding the keys.

Price It Right From the Start The first 2 weeks are crucial. Overpricing leads to stagnation, price drops, and a damaged perception. A well-priced home often sells faster and for more. Hire a Skilled Local Agent Choose someone with a strong track record, hyper-local market knowledge, and savvy negotiation skills. They’ll be your strategist, not just a sign in the yard. Understand Your Market Know if you're in a buyer’s or seller’s market. Days on market, price drops, and recent comps should guide your strategy. ? Preparation & Presentation Maximize Curb Appeal First impressions matter. Trim landscaping, refresh paint, clean the entry, and ensure your home looks move-in ready from the outside. Declutter, Depersonalize, and Deep Clean You want buyers to picture themselves living there—not visiting your home. Consider professional cleaning and staging if needed. Invest in Strategic Upgrades Focus on high-ROI updates like paint, lighting, fixtures, and minor kitchen/bath improvements. Skip costly renovations unless advised by your agent. Professional Photography is Non-Negotiable The majority of buyers will see your home online first. High-quality photos and a compelling listing description are critical. ? While on the Market Be Flexible With Showings The more accessible your home is, the more likely it is to get offers. Try not to turn away showings, especially in the early days. Respond to Feedback Pay attention to repeated buyer feedback—especially on price, condition, or layout—and be willing to adjust strategy quickly. Don’t Chase the Market If the home isn’t getting traction in the first 2–3 weeks, reduce the price decisively—not in small increments. Timing is everything. ? Negotiation & Under Contract Don’t Let Emotions Cloud Judgment Buyers may make offers below asking, ask for repairs, or criticize your home. Stay calm and strategic—it’s a business transaction. Understand the Full Offer, Not Just the Price Terms like financing, contingencies, appraisal gaps, and possession timelines matter just as much as the offer price. Have a Backup Plan Deals fall through. Stay prepared with a list of interested buyers or a backup offer if possible. ? Before Closing Make Agreed-Upon Repairs Promptly Don’t delay repairs or try to cut corners. It can cause delays or legal issues. Prepare for the Final Walkthrough Leave the home clean, empty, and in the condition agreed upon in the contract. This is your last impression—make it a good one. ? Bonus Tip Trust your agent’s strategy, but stay informed. This is your biggest asset—treat the process like a business decision, not just a personal one.

Everyone from first time home buyers to high net worth investors. I have a deep understanding of each type of client, and their specific needs.

One transaction that really stands out to me involved a client I worked with for nearly three years. Throughout that time, we toured dozens of homes, always searching for just the right fit—specifically, one with a breathtaking view that truly spoke to them. It took patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of their vision, but eventually we found the perfect property: a stunning $1.6 million home with panoramic views that completely aligned with what they had imagined from day one. The moment they stepped onto the deck and saw that view, I could tell it was the one. The entire experience—from the long search to the successful negotiation—culminated in a closing filled with joy and gratitude. The clients were beyond thrilled, and they made a point to express how much they appreciated my commitment and hard work over the years. It was one of those moments that reminds you why you do what you do—helping people not just buy a house, but find the home they’ve been dreaming about.

I got started in real estate because I’ve always had a passion for homes, architecture, and helping people navigate major life decisions. What began as a curiosity quickly turned into a career once I realized how much I enjoyed the process of connecting people with the right property and negotiating on their behalf. I was drawn to the challenge, the strategy, and the opportunity to make a real impact in people’s lives. Early on, I committed myself to learning not just the transactional side of the business, but also how to truly guide clients through what can often be an emotional and complex process. Over time, that dedication turned into long-term relationships and repeat business, and I haven’t looked back since. It’s a career that constantly pushes me to grow, and I genuinely love what I do.

Yes I am a Pricing strategy advisor and an accredited buyers representative and a certified real estate negotiation expert.